Press Releases

DEM Stocks Rhode Island Waters With Trout for Fall Fishing Season

Some 6,600 hatchery-raised trout stocked in ponds and rivers throughout state. Just in time for Columbus Day weekend, the Department of Environmental Management announced it is stocking ponds and rivers across Rhode Island with some 6,600 brown and brook trout.

"Fishing is a popular outdoor activity for people of all ages, attracting residents and tourists alike in Rhode Island," said DEM Director Janet Coit. "We hope families will take time this holiday weekend to venture out and experience the thrill of reeling in a trout at one of these locations; it not only promotes family time and quality of life - but also our state's economic health."

Rhode Island's recreational fishing industry contributes more than $130 million to the state and local economy annually - based on consumer spending on trips, gear, and other related purchases. There are an estimated 175,000 recreational anglers (age 16+) in Rhode Island each year, according to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service National Survey of Fishing, Hunting, and Wildlife-Associated Recreation.

A 2015 fishing license is required for anglers 15 years of age and older. A Trout Conservation Stamp is also required of anyone wishing to keep or possess a trout or to fish in a catch-and-release or 'fly-fishing only' area. Fishing licenses can be purchased online at www.dem.ri.gov or in person by visiting the Boat Registration and Licensing Office at DEM Headquarters, 235 Promenade Street, Providence.

Fishing licenses and the Trout Conservation Stamp can be obtained at any city or town clerk's office or via an authorized agent such as bait and tackle shops, Walmart, and Benny's. Visit the DEM website for a current list of licensed vendors. Anglers are encouraged to check the list prior to visiting a vendor to purchase a license.

License fees are $18 for Rhode Island residents and current members of the Armed Forces, $33 for a combination hunting and fishing license, $35 for non-residents, and $16 for a tourist three-consecutive-day license. Licenses are free for anglers over 65 (trout stamp not required) - as well as for those with a 100-percent disability.

Anglers are reminded of the prohibition on usage of wading foot gear with external felt soles or other natural or synthetic porous material capable of absorbing liquid, statewide on freshwaters. Anglers and others are also reminded that at this time of the year, cyanobacteria or blue-green algae may be found in lakes and ponds. Currently there is an advisory for St. Mary's Pond and Melville Pond in Portsmouth due to blue-green algae blooms. Rhode Islanders are urged to avoid recreational activities in these bodies of water.

A list of stocked waters and regulations governing freshwater fisheries are also available online at www.dem.ri.gov. Follow DEM on Twitter (@RhodeIslandDEM) or Facebook at www.facebook.com/RhodeIslandDEM for more information on recreational opportunities in Rhode Island as well as other timely updates.